The 4.9-mill continuing operating levy for the Warren County school system led 51 to 48 percent with all 157 precincts reporting early today, according to the Warren County Board of Elections.

Kings school officials were hoping to squeeze out a win that would allow them to avoid almost $5 million in personnel and program cuts - including elimination of high school bus service - that are scheduled on top of $2 million of budget cuts already in place for the next two school years.

The levy would generate $3.3 million annually for the 3,800-student district and raise annual property taxes for a $100,000 home by $150.

The district is facing a budget deficit in 2006 and regardless of the outcome of the 4.9-mill levy, school officials planned to seek a renewal of a permanent improvement levy next year.